Substance use disorder is a widely misunderstood disease.
There is a dangerous stigma surrounding addiction. From prescription opioids to alcohol, people see those caught in the snare of addiction as having something wrong with them. People think it is an intrinsic weakness — a moral failing or a character flaw. For that reason, many people with a substance use disorder choose not to seek help. They do not want their friends, family or coworkers to see them as defective.
Although addiction science has grown incredibly over the past decade, many are still unaware that it is a brain disease. Because many people spiral into addiction due to poor coping mechanisms and chronic substance misuse, people judge harshly. The truth is, no one sets out to become addicted to a substance; it happens over time due to extenuating factors.
If you struggle with substance use disorder, it is crucial to learn how to overcome addiction stigma. It is not a fault in your personality that you are not addressing. Addiction is a chronic illness that is treatable with the help of medical professionals. It is time to look past the stigma and see the truth. There is hope for those with the disease of addiction.
Is Addiction a Character Flaw or a Disease?
Some people view addiction as a personal choice or lack of willpower. However, brain science is changing the way we see addiction to drugs and alcohol, offering renewed hope for recovery. It stems from multiple causes, not an underlying character flaw. Addiction as a disease is chronic and lasting, similar to diabetes, asthma or cancer.
Understanding addiction is something most people are not ready for. It is difficult for them to set aside their preconceived notions and accept that there is new information. Some will be surprised to hear that addiction is like other serious chronic illnesses, but it is true.
Here are the ways in which addiction is similar to other chronic illnesses:
Abnormalities Within a Vital Organ
Addictive substances activate your brain’s reward pathway, causing you to feel pleasurable sensations. Over time, these substances change how your brain functions. Your brain requires more of the substance to maintain its stasis and fend off debilitating withdrawal symptoms. The brain’s chemistry has been reshaped and compromised by substances, causing it to function differently and requiring life-long maintenance.
Hereditary and Genetic Factors
Another similarity addiction has to other chronic illnesses is that it can be genetic or passed down from a parent. Everyone is unique, and the effects of addictive substances are specific to each individual. Some are predisposed to addiction due to specific genetic markers. This means that in very little time, a typical doctor’s prescription for pain-relieving opioids could lead to a life-altering addiction.
Environmental Impact
Much research is devoted to understanding the “nature vs. nurture” factors of addiction. Some people who do not have a genetic predisposition to addiction will develop the disease due to their environment. Stressful and traumatic events at an early age or untreated mental illness can exacerbate the disease and lead to substance misuse.
Remitting Nature
Addiction is also similar to other chronic illnesses because those diagnosed will have periods when they are in remission. There are times when symptoms will worsen or improve. For people with substance use disorder, their “remission” is when they are in recovery. However, someone with substance use disorder will always have the illness, as there is no actual permanent cure.
Many people do not know that relapse is part of the recovery process. That is not to say that relapse is ever encouraged. It just means that it can and does happen, but it does not mean it is the end of the road. It is merely a speed bump.
Just like with other diseases, some therapies can help. Recovery programs for addiction include medication-assisted treatment and other addiction support services that can help people long-term. What is essential for people to overcome addiction misconceptions is to continue promoting addiction awareness. The more everyone learns about substance use disorder, the better the prevention efforts.
Learning How to Overcome Addiction Stigma
Overcoming addiction stigma can be difficult for everyone. Those with substance use disorder and their loved ones will have to fight for understanding often. However, things are seemingly improving every day in the public eye. Understanding how to overcome addiction stigma can take some practice, but with time, it will get easier. Here are some ways to help you overcome addiction:
Accept Your Addiction
This can be difficult for some people, but ultimately, it will make life easier. Having substance use disorder does not make you less of a person. It does not make you less valuable to the world. Your strength in overcoming the challenges of the disease makes you stronger than most.
Do Not Fight Alone
The recovery community is immense. With the help of the internet, there are many sources of addiction recovery support. There is truly strength in numbers when people come together to fight the unjust stigma placed on addiction.
Remain Dedicated
Recovery won’t always be easy, but it will always be worth it. Make your recovery goals a priority and set an example with your progress. When people see how much you have overcome, they will second guess their unfair judgment.
Become an Advocate
When in recovery, you quickly learn that other people’s ignorance is often caused by unknowing. Prepare to inform people who seem judgmental about the illness and the science behind addiction. Keep a list of educational materials accessible to you for teachable moments.
Stereotyping those with addiction as immoral or flawed is not helpful. Society continues to demonize those with this progressive brain disease instead of attempting to reach out and understand. This shame-based thinking has been one of the factors that cause the addiction problem to continue unabated. Why would someone reach out for help if they are going to feel worse than they already do?
If people could see past the stigma of addiction, society would be able to recognize addiction for what it is. It is a disease that requires medical treatment. Then, those in need would not have to be afraid to ask for help. Recovery programs could be their first choice, not a last resort.
Let AppleGate Teach you How to Overcome Addiction Stigma
If you or someone you love is in need of opioid addiction treatment, there is hope. Like with other chronic illnesses, treatments for addiction reduce symptoms and promote a full and healthy life. At AppleGate Recovery, we specialize in medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
At our outpatient facilities, we work with you to individualize your MAT program to your needs, working within your schedule. Our compassionate team is here to walk with you every step of the way on your road to recovery. Don’t wait one more day. Contact AppleGate Recovery today to get started.